Back-to-School Caring Tree set up at mall

July 28, 2007|By Emily Arthur-Richardt, American News Writer

A few years ago, Tammy Winter watched as a child gave a lesson in generosity. After receiving a backpack full of school supplies and two pairs of shoes courtesy of the Back-to-School Caring Tree, the child returned a pair of the shoes to give to someone else. "Whoever chose this kid's name had bought two pairs of shoes instead of just one," said Winter of The Salvation Army in Aberdeen. "After the family went out to their car, the mom came back in and said there had been a mistake. There were two pairs instead of one." But no mistakes had been made. And when the child and mom decided to donate one of the pairs to another child, Winter was touched - much as she is every time a Back-to-School Caring Tree backpack and other items are given away. "It's glorious," Winter said. "The kids and their families are so appreciative. There's usually some tears, and the kids are so surprised." The Back-to-School Caring Tree is celebrating its sixth year in Aberdeen. The project, which is sponsored by the Lakewood Mall, Salvation Army and Hub City Radio, lets those willing to donate select a card showing a student's back-to-school needs. The person then buys the items for the child, brings them back and the items are distributed at The Salvation Army. The Back-to-School Caring Tree site is set up at the Lakewood Mall, said Karla Spear, marketing director for the mall. The backpacks and other school supplies can be returned to the site through Aug. 13. Last year, about 225 children were helped, Winter said. This year, 249 kids from kindergarten to eighth grade have signed up. "It's really awesome," Winter said. "They will be receiving a backpack full of school supplies for their grade level, and then there will be a clothing allowance. Each kid will be getting an outfit or pair of shoes or sometimes both." The Salvation Army is also accepting donations of pencils, pens, notepads, erasers, rulers containing inches and centimeters and glue from businesses. Volunteers from The Salvation Army, RSVP and other groups will be available at the caring tree site near the Lakewood Mall Center Stage on weekends to assist with donations, collections and questions. Reporter Emily Arthur-Richardt; (605) 622-2314, 1-800-925-4100 ext. 314; earthur@aberdeennews.com